View full sizeProfessor David L. Crane, of Alamance Community College in North Carolina, curated the exhibit "Making the Movement: Objects, Objectives and Civil Rights."Provided photo

The Community Folk Art Center of the Syracuse University department of African American studies will host two events on Friday, March 21, as part of the "Looking Back, Moving Forward: 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Civil Rights Movement 1964-2014."

First, Professor David L. Crane, of Alamance Community College will introduce his curated exhibit "Making the Movement: Objects, Objectives and Civil Rights."

The exhibit explores the material culture of the Civil Rights Movement and includes pin backs, pamphlets, mailers, posters and prevalent flyers used during the movement, which reflected evolving goals and tactics in the struggle for freedom and equality.

Next, a poetry jam for civil rights will follow Crane's remarks.

15 poets will prepare one or two poems for the themed open mic. While some poets have signed up, others are welcome to bring and read their own poetry on Friday night. People who want to read can sign in with Cedric Bolton that evening.

Each poet is also asked to identify a past or present social justice activist to whom they would like to pay tribute.

Community poets will receive awards for art, activism and inspiration.

Where: Community Folk Art Center at 805 E. Genesee St.When: Friday, March 21 from 8-9:30 p.m.How much: Attendance and participation are free and open to the public.